Google and Microsoft to add kill switch to smartphones

Following Apple's example, both Microsoft and Google promised to add a kill switch feature to their next generation smartphones. Statistics show kill switches have a major impact on theft rates, iPhone theft rates dropped 19 percent in NY in the first five months of 2014 and even as much as 38 percent in London.

Apple implemented kill switches in iPhones last September and according to NY attorney general Eric Schneiderman, iPhone thefts have dropped by 19% in the first five months of 2014. The same is true in San Francisco and London where thefts fell 24% and 38% respectively.

“The statistics released today illustrate the stunning effectiveness of kill switches and the commitments of Google and Microsoft are giant steps toward consumer safety,” Schneiderman said.